Donald Pettipas

On Wednesday August 5, 2026, Donald Pettipas took the hand of the Lord and passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Born in Bayfield, Nova Scotia, Don was the thirteenth of eighteen children born to the late Arthur and Frances Pettipas.

He was predeceased by his brother Alphonse; his sisters, Margaret Séguin, Catherine Davidson, and Barbara Arsenault; and his beloved in-laws, Henry and Shirley Kilpatrick. Don also carried the grief of his brother Kenneth, who has been missing since 1964, at the age of 16, and whose whereabouts remain unknown.

Don had fond memories of growing up on the family homestead, surrounded by his many brothers and sisters. From an early age, his parents instilled in him the values of hard work and, most importantly, family.

At 19 years of age, Don became a member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Local 205, in Hamilton, Ontario, beginning a career that would span more than five decades. As a skilled industrial painter and sandblaster, he took on some of the toughest jobs across Canada. The work was demanding, but he never complained. His hard work was matched by his sense of humour, which could lighten even the toughest day.

He was a proud, long-time employee of All Steel Coatings Limited in Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia. He appreciated the opportunities the company provided, allowing him to gradually ease into retirement. Our family will always hold dear the many friendships he made throughout his years of work.

After raising their family in Nova Scotia, Don and Cheryl later moved to Alberta to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Don had a passion for arm wrestling. Whether around the kitchen table, in a local tavern, or at tournaments, he never turned down a challenge.

More than anything, Don was a caring man who always put his family before himself. Nothing meant more to him than seeing his family happy, healthy, and together. He was always there when someone needed him.

Don was the devoted husband of Cheryl, with whom he shared 49 years of true partnership and a life built together.

He was an incredibly proud father to Shane (Roxanne), Renee (Joe), Bryce (Carla), and Geneva (Ben).

His greatest pride and joy was being “Papa” to his grandchildren: Jack, Myra, Tori, Lauchlin, Rueben, and Sonny. They brought him a special kind of happiness, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Dad will be deeply missed by his many brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, extended family, and the many friends he made throughout his life.

You have more than earned your rest, Donny.

Cremation has taken place.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated
Saturday November 14, 2026 11:00am, with Father Allan MacPhie presiding.
St. Paul's Church, Havre Boucher
1470 Cape Jack Rd, Havre Boucher, NS

Burial in the parish cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made to St. Paul’s Cemetery Fund or a charity of your choice.